Curriculum

Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA)

Programme Overview

At Scoil Chonglais, we offer the Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA) programme as an alternative senior cycle pathway designed to meet the needs of students who prefer a more practical, hands-on approach to their education.

What is the Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA)?

The Leaving Certificate Applied is a two-year, practical-based programme aimed at preparing students for the world of work, further education, and adult life. It focuses on developing vocational skills, personal responsibility, and career readiness. The LCA is structured around modules and work experience, with assessments based on a combination of continuous assessment, project work, and practical tasks.

The LCA programme provides students with an opportunity to develop real-world skills, gain work experience, and prepare for life beyond school, whether that’s in further education, training, or the workforce.

Key Features of the LCA Program at Scoil Chonglais

  • Hands-on Learning: The LCA programme emphasizes practical learning in areas such as business, technology and design. Students engage in real-life projects and activities that allow them to apply their skills in practical settings.
  • Work Experience: One of the core components of the LCA programme is work experience. Students participate in periods of work placement in a range of industries, from local businesses to service sectors. This work experience helps students develop workplace skills, build confidence, and gain valuable insights into different careers.
  • Personal and Social Development: Alongside academic and vocational learning, LCA students are encouraged to develop their personal and social skills through teamwork, problem-solving, and communication activities. Our programme includes modules on social education, interpersonal skills, and well-being, which help students build essential life skills.
  • Modules and Course Content: The LCA programme at Scoil Chonglais covers a wide variety of subjects, which are grouped into five key areas:
    1. General Education: English, Communication, Mathematics, and Information Technology.
    2. Vocational Education: Modules in areas like Home Economics, Technology, Science, and Business Studies.
    3. Work Experience: Students complete work placements that allow them to gain practical experience in a work environment.
    4. Social Education: Focused on personal growth, including wellbeing, life skills, and active citizenship.
    5. Practical Learning: Engaging students in project-based tasks that connect classroom learning with real-world applications.
  • Assessment and Accreditation: LCA students are assessed through a combination of practical projects, oral presentations, exams, and coursework. This ensures that students are continuously evaluated based on their ability to apply knowledge and skills in real-life contexts. Upon successful completion, students receive the Leaving Certificate Applied award, which is fully recognized by employers, further education institutions, and training providers.

    • Leaving Cert Applied Reporting Descriptors

    The Leaving Cert Applied is graded as Pass, Merit, or Distinction. Students who accumulate fewer than 120 credits or who leave the programme before completion will receive a record of experience. Grades are awarded based on the number of credits earned in each subject.
    The credit breakdown is as follows:

    • Pass = 60- 69% (120 – 139 Credits)
    • Merit = 70-84% (140 Credits -169 Credits)
    • Distinction = 85 -100% (170 -200 Credits)
    • Total Credits available = 200

    LCA Modes of Assessment

    The LCA assessment is based on:

    1. Satisfactory completion of modules & Attendance (31%)
      • Evidence of completion of 4 key assignments for each module
      • One credit per course module in which there is a final exam
      • Two credits per course module in which there is NO final exam
      • 90% attendance = 62 Credits (31%)

    This section is recorded in school by subject teachers who submit records for each session to the LCA Coordinator who uploads them to the SEC online entry system. All evidence and records are kept in house.

    1. LCA Tasks= 70 Credits (35%)
      LCA students undertake 7 tasks which are assessed through an interview by an external examiner. These tasks account for 10 credits each = 70 Credits (35%)

      • Vocational Preparation
      • Vocational Education (x2)
      • General Education
      • Contemporary Issue
      • Personal Reflection
      • Practical Achievement
    1. Final Examinations = 68 credits (34%)
      • English & Communication
      • Vocational Specialisms in Year 1 & Year “
      • Language Year 1 & Year 2
      • Social Education
      • Maths Applications

    Exams are run by the SEC in June of each year. 

    Why Choose the LCA Programme at Scoil Chonglais?

    The Leaving Certificate Applied programme is designed for students who prefer a practical, student-centered approach to learning. At Scoil Chonglais, we believe in preparing students for life beyond the classroom, helping them to develop the skills they need to succeed in the workforce, pursue further education, or follow vocational training.

    Our LCA programme is built around individual growth, career exploration, and vocational development, offering students a flexible and supportive environment where they can thrive. Students in the LCA programme at Scoil Chonglais gain confidence, independence, and practical skills that will serve them well throughout their adult lives.

    By choosing the LCA pathway, students can look forward to a rewarding, hands-on learning experience that helps them build a strong foundation for the future.

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